Meet UNMC Distinguished Scientist Michael Boska, Ph.D.

UNMC researcher Michael Boska, Ph.D., answers questions about his work, life and interests.

NOTE: This profile is part of a series to highlight the 23 researchers who will be honored May 22 at a ceremony for UNMC’s 2011 Scientist Laureate, Distinguished Scientist and New Investigator award recipients.

Michael Boska, Ph.D.

• Name: Michael Boska, Ph.D.
  
• Title: Professor and vice chairman for research in the department of radiology
  
• Joined UNMC: February 2000
  
• Hometowns: Detroit, Miami and the San Francisco Bay area.

Describe your research in laymen’s terms.

My research is focused on development and application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS) methods. These methods:

• Provide non-invasive monitoring of physiology and biochemistry in the body,
• Provide quantitative measures of disease progression; and
  
• Can be used in small animal models of disease for determining effects of experimental therapies.

How do you want your research to translate to benefit patients?

We want to develop improved disease detection methods and aid in the development of new therapies.

What is the best piece of advice anyone ever gave you, professional or personal?

That would be what my high school gymnastics coach always used to tell us: “Don’t sweat the small stuff, and it’s almost all small stuff.”

List three things few people know about you.

• I am a pilot. I have flown hang gliders with and without power for more than 30 years now and began flying sailplanes in the last year.
  
• I am an avid Telemark skier and make trips to Colorado and Utah on a regular basis to ski each year.
  
• I enjoy Latin rhythms. I learned how to play a set of three Valje congas by taking classes from Dr. Alberto Nacif in Michigan over a number of years. I still play when the opportunity presents itself.